IPCC Report concludes that climate change threatens irreversible and dangerous impacts, unless immediate steps are taken
The Green Party of Canada supports the key findings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The report confirms that human influence on the climate, if left unchecked, threatens irreversible and dangerous impacts. The report also states that options are available to mitigate the impact of climate change if countries work collaboratively and immediately implement a plan.
“With the release of the most comprehensive report ever undertaken and produced by over 800 scientists from around the world who were appointed by governments including Canada, the debate as to whether or not climate change is a reality and a threat is finally over – we must now work on solutions internationally,” stated Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament (MP) for Saanich-Gulf Islands.
Ms. May went on to say, “A phase-out process of fossil fuel dependence needs to begin now and Canada must be a willing partner so that climate change does not threaten our way of life and the very existence of human civilization itself.”
The report established that there is a human influence on the climate system and the growing adverse impacts are being observed on all continents. It went further to state that if left unchecked, climate change will increase the likelihood of severe, pervasive and irreversible impacts for people and ecosystems, and that he unrestricted use of fossil fuels should be phased out by 2100.
In a release to the media, R. K. Pachauri, IPCC Chair, stated:
“We have the means to limit climate change. The solutions are many and allow for continued economic and human development. All we need is the will to change, which we trust will be motivated by knowledge and an understanding of the science of climate change.”
“The IPCC has confirmed what we already know: we can’t stop using fossil fuels overnight,” added Deputy Leader and MP for Thunder Bay-Superior North, Bruce Hyer.“But it’s a fool’s errand to pretend we can keep using oil indefinitely, without any economic or human consequences. The transition to renewable energy must be deliberate and steady. A system of carbon pricing, like Carbon Fee and Dividend, would send the right signals to the market to ensure that we start that transition as soon as possible, and avoid the costs that come with delaying action.”
"The latest IPCC report makes clear what scientists have been telling us for some time - namely that most of the proven fossil fuel reserves will need to stay in the ground and countries must make a swift transition to renewables," added Green Party Environment Critic, Dr. Andrew Park.
"Here in Canada, we face a stark choice. We can continue to be on the wrong side of history by placing all our bets on the fossil fuel economy of yesteryear, or we can divert our scientific skills, technical creativity, and business acumen into the creation of a true 21st Century economy powered largely from renewable energy."
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Contact:
Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
(613) 614 4916
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca